That means there will be a choice of five variants - from the entry-level VTi through to a fully-loaded VTi-LX - with the lower-grade models powered by a 1.8-litre naturally-aspirated four cylinder and higher-grade models featuring the company's new 1.5-litre turbo charged four cylinder. If it does mirror the sedan range, all will be front wheel drive with a CVT automatic and, even in base trim, come equipped with a comprehensive suite of electronic driver aids including automated emergency braking, forward collision and lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control, as well as conveniences such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone mirroring.

Honda Australia has yet to indicate whether the hatchback will slot in below - or match - the pricing of the sedan range, which starts at $22,390 (plus on-roads) for the VTi and tops out at $33,590 (plus on-roads) for the VTi-LX.

While Honda has introduced a sports-focussed RS variant with the Civic sedan, the hatchback will exclusively form the basis of the hotly anticipated Type R which is set to challenge the likes of the Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R and the upcoming third-generation Renault Sport Megane RS as the fastest, most engaging machine in the hot hatch segment.